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Family Impact Seminars

Family Impact Seminars

Family Impact Seminars (FIS) provide state policymakers with timely evidence-based information on a variety of family issues. The seminars were created to increase the use of research in public policy decisions, and to encourage legislators and policymakers to consider the impact their decisions have on families.

The seminars were initiated in the 1970’s, and currently 27 states and the District of Columbia are part of the Family Impact Seminars network. The Kentucky Family Impact Seminars are directed by Dr. Ann Vail and coordinated through the University of Kentucky School of Human Environmental Sciences and University Cooperative Extension.

The seminars target state policymakers; including legislators, legislative aides, governor’s office staff, legislative service agency staff, and agency representatives. The seminars typically include two or three presentations given by a panel of premier researchers, program directors, and policy analysts. The presentations and discussion sessions that follow provide a neutral, nonpartisan setting outside the political environment for policymakers to discuss issues and seek common ground. Each seminar is accompanied by a briefing report that summarizes high-quality research on the topic and draws implications for policy.

Click here to learn more about the seminars at the website for The Policy Institute for Family Impact Seminars.